About me!

Who is Walter? 

Walter’s story is one of resilience. By 13, both of his parents had been deported. Homelessness, probation, and gang involvement soon followed. At 15, while juggling three jobs to support his mother and aunt through breast cancer, he saw firsthand how institutions were failing young people like him. He made history in his family as the first to graduate high school — not just graduating, but as valedictorian. At just age 17, he co-founded Bridgemakers, a youth-led nonprofit, with a mission to create better pathways to prosperity for young people in the Twin Cities like himself. He served as Executive Director for five years, raising more than $5 million for youth-serving initiatives.

Walter is expanding his mission internationally, aiming to bring his expertise in ecosystem transformation to Mexico and other Latin American countries. In Minnesota, he continues to work with institutions to strengthen youth-serving programs and build a healthy ecosystem where young people can discover their talents, gifts and passion through leadership and entrepreneurship. 

Why I Do This Work

I believe in a world where young people—especially youth of color and those navigating systemic barriers—are not just seen, but deeply invested in as visionaries, builders, and leaders. My commitment to this work comes from lived experience: I grew up in systems that overlooked my potential—until one mentor changed the course of my life. That moment sparked a journey that led me to co-found a youth-led nonprofit, raise millions for young changemakers, and witness firsthand the transformative power of mentorship, opportunity, and belief.

I do this work because I know our communities are overflowing with untapped genius. I’ve seen what happens when youth are given real tools, real trust, and real chances—not just to participate, but to lead. This is more than consulting—it’s a mission to help institutions and communities design ecosystems that unlock youth potential and shift power. Because when we build infrastructure that supports youth leadership, innovation, and ownership, we’re not just investing in the future—we’re co-creating it, right now.